Congress's propensity for institution-wrecking might cost it this election. Institution-building is difficult. But the CBI saga suggests that the Congress violated the simplest rule: stay out of the way. There are still enough professionals in the system who can deliver.

THERE is much analysis of why the Congress is strug- gling, despite ostensibly favourable circumstances. Many explanations are familiar and spot on the organizational revival is still uneven; its ability to adapt to local conditions remains spotty.

There is also a deep problem with its message. Watching Rahul Gandhi's speeches gives you a couple of clues.

There is a constant refrain on the theme "hamne apke liye yeh kiya...", almost like a throw back to the'70s.

It fundamentally misunderstands how India has transformed. Voters, including the poorest of the poor, find this kind of language patronising. The real revolution that has come about because of the social churning over the last two decades is that voters are looking for instruments of empowerment, not palliative handouts from the state. The Congress still has not found a language to articulate this. While the focus on the poor is sincere, the critique of India Shining plausible, there is no politics of aspiration associated with the Congress's message. In their own limited ways, various regional parties appeal to a sense of vicarious pride, Mayawati's articulates a dream of Dalit empowerment and visibility.

Successful messaging is not about a claim to noblesse oblige, not only about attacking opponents without dated issues. It is as much about being a source of hope; looking at people in the eye and instigating dreams.

Last update : 13-05-2009 18:52

Keywords : Battering Ram, Pratap Bhanu Mehta

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